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By valero
- In Uncategorized
There are many reasons why you might consider renaming the company you have set up in the UK. If you’ve read our articles, you’ll know that it’s a simpler process than it sounds. Take a look at this new article on how to change the name of a company in the UK.
One by one, we take you through the steps you need to follow at the Companies House or when filling in the NM01 form. We also tell you how to communicate the change to your clients.
Why change the name of a company?
There may be several reasons why you want to change the name of your company. Whether it is because you want to give it a new look or because you are thinking of restructuring. Maybe you want to reach a wider sector with a new line of business or simply change the name of your company.
Whatever the reason, the important thing to bear in mind is that changing the name does not affect the company number nor the legal structure. This is already an advantage in terms of concerns.
Steps for changing a company name in the UK
First of all, of course, you must choose a new company name. Here, you should bear in mind what we told you in one of our first articles.
Make sure that the new name is not already registered or is not too similar to another company’s name, as Companies House could turn it down. There is a search engine on the Companies House website to help you check this.
Another important aspect is that the new name should not contain restricted particles as Royal, British or Authority. They are only allowed if they are duly authorised.
Of course, if you have several partners in your company, a special resolution will be necessary. This requires the favour of the 75%. If you are a Sole Trader and your articles of association provide for this, you can do it yourself.
Companies House Form NM01
The NM01 is the official form for notifying a change of company name in the UK.
That document can be submitted in only two ways. You only need to pay £8 if you do it online or £10 if by mail. Either way, you can download it from the Companies House website.
Once the change is approved, you will receive a certificate of incorporation on change of name. Keep it safely as it is the document that legally validates the new name.
Update your brand and communicate the change
Although legally you have done all the right things, you must now consider your image and customers, who are essential to the survival of your business. Just because Companies House already has your new name doesn’t mean that everyone is aware of it!
Don’t forget another essential step: inform His Majesty’s Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
It is now up to you to make sure that you change your company name on the website, both on the official website and on social media. You may have to pay for new domain names. Remember your business cards and letterheads for invoices and emails. Failure to do so will make your image look unprofessional.
Also, inform your customers, suppliers, banks and anyone else who may be affected by the change. Update contracts and terms and conditions if necessary.
Best of all, even if your company name changes, your registration number does not.
Conclusion on how to change the name of a company in the UK
As you can see, changing a company name in the UK is quick and easy. All you need to do is follow the steps outlined above.
Moreover, it can be a great opportunity to redefine your image, attract new customers and start a new phase with a new energy.